“We are now undertaking inquiries to establish events which led to this man losing his life.”

Police yesterday remained tight-lipped about the details of the killing but a cordon remained in place around the scene throughout the day.

Villagers said the owner of the bungalow was Peter Battle, a businessman who had lived in the village for many years. Parish councillor Paul Middleton said an ambulance went to the scene on Thursday evening, along with as many as 12 police vehicles, and the property was cordoned off.

Residents spoke of their shock at the news.

“It’s very sad,” said one woman. “I cannot believe this has happened. Nothing normally happens here.”

Another woman said: “I last saw him before Christmas when we went carol singing around the village.”

DCI McFarlane said police were trying to confirm the man’s identity and locate any next of kin.

“Although very much in the early stages of the investigation, we have not managed to trace any family or friends who are able to identify the man, nor is there an apparent motive for his murder,” he said.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who might have information about the victim, who is believed to have been the occupier of Whisker Cottage.

“If you have information which can help us to trace his next of kin, we appeal to you to come forward to speak to us.”

He said police were gathering information about visitors and vehicles which had attended the address.

He appealed for anyone with any information which might help to bring it to police’s attention.

“It may seem insignificant but it could be of real importance,” he said The spokesman said the cause of the man’s death currently remained unconfirmed until such time as a post-mortem examination could take place.

• Anyone with information relating to the incident should contact Humberside Police on 101 quoting log 492 of 07/02/13, the incident room on 01377 208989 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.